Beirut is a hidden gem for remarkable nature sightings and historical landmarks in the Middle East. Affectionately referred to as the ‘Paris of the Middle East’, the capital city of Lebanon has many parts of its lifestyle influenced by French culture. The city boasts beautiful seaside that features world-class beachfront hotels and unforgettable sunset views. You can also expect to see ancient buildings such as ruins showcasing rich history and mosques exhibiting architectural wonders. To stay close to local markets selling various antiques and goods as well as a vibrant nightlife, you can consider staying in one of the Airbnb vacation rentals. As Beirut is nestled in a majestic region, many adjacent towns are also great for day trips that will provide you with great experience and exposure to Lebanese marvels. Read on and find out more about the top day trips from Beirut, Lebanon.
1. Sidon, Tyre & Maghdouche (from USD 75.0)
If you are looking for a private and comfortable tour to towns nearby Beirut to experience local culture and history, here’s a tour to help you out. Visit Sidon’s majestic Sea Castle, originally a fortress that was built on an island connected to the mainland via a narrow pathway, as well as the Souks, or Arabian-style bazaars for some local shopping and cuisine. The next stop is the Al-Bass Archaeological Site in Tyre, where Roman-era ruins line roads and streets. After about an hour here, you will journey to the village of Maghdouche, a popular pilgrimage site, where the Maghdouche Catholic Church is situated.
Lebanon Unveiled: Exclusive Private Tours to Sidon & Tyre
Duration: 9 hours
2. Mseilha Fort
Located in the Village of Hamat about 40 minutes from Beirut, Mseilha Fort is made of sandstone blocks and limestone rocks near the Nahr el-Jawz River. Dating back to the 17th century, this tourist attraction near Beirut was allegedly built to guard the Tripoli-Beirut route. It is accessible to the public and has many entrances and archways for tourists to explore.
Standing magnificently on a hill adjacent to a mountain, the fort also provides a vantage point view of the village and beyond. The entrance to the fort is free, and it is hard to miss this structure as it is just next to the highway.
3. Harissa & Byblos (from USD 50.0)
This action-packed tour will take you to five destinations in one day, perfect for a fulfilling weekend trip from Beirut. Start your journey at Jeitta Grotto, where limestone caves provide tunnels and walkways to gorgeous views within its natural landscape. Follow on to the famous Byblos Castle, where the magnificent castle ruin stands on a hill in the middle of a town, against the backdrop of the open sea. Head next to the Old Souk, where the bustling life of Byblos happens.
You will then be taken to The Shrine of Our Lady of Lebanon, featuring the 8.5 m (27.8 ft) high Virgin Mary statue stretching her hands toward Beirut. The last stop is the Teleferique Harisa, where you will experience an eagle view of the bay of Jounieh and surrounding cities via an aerial cableway.
Full-Day Private Tour to Jeita Grotto, Harissa and Byblos
Duration: 8 hours
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4. Cedars of Lebanon, Qozhaya, and Bcharre (from USD 88.0)
This trip makes the most of your day with a site visit to various interesting places. Start your day with a stroll in Bcharre, an idyllic town in Qadisha Valley. The town is rich with heritage and is popular for its old monasteries and ruins. For art lovers, there is a museum dedicated to Khalil Gibran, the famous poet, who was born in Bcharre. Follow on to another ancient town, Kozhaya to explore the ancient civilization that was once here. Your last stop will be the Cedar of God, a protected forest of popular Lebanon Cedar, which is a scenic marvel during winter.
Cedars of Lebanon, Qozhaya, & Bcharre - With Lunch (4G on Board)
Duration: 9 hours
5. Tripoli (from USD 75.0)
Tripoli, one of the largest cities in the country, is a seaport town overlooking the vast Mediterranean Sea. At just an hour from Beirut, this city offers splendid views and remarkable sites to visit. Start your tour with a visit to the Citadel Saint Gilles, a majestic fort atop of a hill, which also houses The Northern Lebanon & Akkar Museum. Follow on to The Great Mosque of Tripoli, interestingly built around the remains of a Crusader church. You will next visit the pride of Tripoli, the Taynal Mosque. This mosque is located on an orchard and is praised for its architecture and design. End your tour with style at El Mina port, where a majestic view of the open sea awaits you.
Traversing Time: A Personalized Journey from Beirut to Tripoli
Duration: 8 hours
6. Deir Al Kamar
With just about 36 minutes by road from Beirut, Deir Al Kamar has a lot to offer to tourists on a day trip. Visit Saydet El Talle Church, a picturesque church adjacent to Dany Chamoun Square; explore the Fakhreddine Mosque, a quaint mosque with an ancient minaret and great architecture; head on to Marie Baz Wax Museum, an interesting gallery of wax figure housed in an old palace; shop in for souvenirs and collectables in Dany Chamoun Square; and end your tour at Palace of Emir Younes Maan, famous for its authentic 15th-century structure.
7. Zahle
Zahle is known for its riverside dining experience as well as for high-quality arak, a local unsweetened distilled spirit. The town’s prominent landmark is the statue of Our Lady of Zahle and Bekaa, located on top of a 54 m (177 ft) tower. You can experience a great view of the towns surrounding it if you climb to the topmost floor. Apart from that, head to Berdawni Promenade, a 300 m (984 ft) promenade by the river, offering various outdoor restaurants and cafes specializing in traditional Lebanese dishes. What’s more, explore Memshieh Park, where you will be greeted by marble tables with depictions of famous sites, waterlily pond, sculptures and many more.
8. Batroun
A major tourist hotspot in North Lebanon, Batroun is not to be missed when you visit Beirut. It is so geographically diverse that you can go from the vast sea view to the gritty mountain view in just a few minutes. Various hiking trails along the Nahr el Jawz will take you to many remarkable and unforgettable views. The beach offers a relaxing and laid-back atmosphere where you can also windsurf and bodyboard. Wineries here are famous, giving you a great experience of local wine tasting. The town’s nightlife is not to be missed, as the main street is scattered with a wide range of pubs and nightclubs.
9. Beqaa Valley (from USD 65.0)
Love everything about wine and winemaking? Here’s a day trip exclusively designed for you. Explore three remarkable wineries in Beqaa Valley to taste local wine and learn more about Lebanon’s strong ties to the delectable beverage. You will start at Chateau Ksara, the country’s oldest winery, to experience wine made from various techniques. Move on to Chateau Kefraya next, where you will be welcomed by a guided tour of the estate showing you a resplendent view of the vines. Your last stop will be at Chateau St Thomas, where you get to sample delicious wines of the land.
Journey Through Lebanese Wine: A Private Tour in the Beqaa Valley
Duration: 8 hours
10. Jeita (from USD 50.0)
Known for its breathtaking natural wonders, Jeita is a destination that will leave you in awe of its beauty. Start your journey with a visit to the magnificent Jeita Grotto, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites as you navigate the underground chambers. Take a boat ride along the crystal-clear underground river and immerse yourself in the magical ambiance.
Embrace the tranquility of nature with a hike through the verdant hills surrounding Jeita. Discover picturesque trails, lush forests, and panoramic vistas that will take your breath away. End your day with a visit to the charming village of Jeita, where you can stroll through the quaint streets, interact with friendly locals, and immerse yourself in the region’s rich culture.
From Beirut: Jeita, Harissa, and Byblos Tour
Duration: 8.0 hour
11. Chouwen Lake (from USD 86.0)
Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and lush surroundings, Chouwen Lake boasts a world of tranquility and natural beauty. Take a leisurely hike through the scenic trails that lead you to the lake, immersing yourself in the serene ambiance of the surrounding pine forests. As you reach the shores of Chouwen Lake, be prepared to be mesmerized by the vibrant colors reflecting off the calm waters.
Nature enthusiasts will be captivated by the diverse flora and fauna that call Chouwen Lake home. Keep an eye out for colorful bird species and the occasional sighting of wildlife amidst the greenery. For adventurous souls, kayaking and canoeing opportunities await, allowing you to explore the hidden corners of the lake and embrace the serenity of the surroundings from a different perspective.
Beirut: Hiking Day Trip to Chouwen Lake with Hotel Transfers
Duration: 7.0 hour
12. Baalbeck, Anjar, Ksara (from USD 167.0)
Travel to quaint little towns around Beirut to experience the rich nature, history, and heritage of the country. The tour will first take you to Baalbeck, also known as the City of the Sun, where the Baalbek temple complex housing the famous Temple of Bacchus and the Temple of Jupiter. The tour continues to Anjar, where you can find various ruins depicting ancient civilization and livelihoods such as the Gerrha, an exclusively Umayyad ruin. The final stop of the tour will be at Ksara, where you will visit vineyards to experience great wines of Lebanon made in the oldest winery in the country.
Baalbeck, Anjar, Ksara - Private Tour
Duration: 7 to 9 hours
So much to see around Beirut
No travel itinerary in Beirut is complete without a trip to one of these exciting destinations. Experience the richness of its culture, architecture, history, and heritage like no other, and select one of the tours and start planning your trip now!
Frequently asked questions about the day trips from Beirut, Lebanon
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